Do you show your clients your unedited photos?

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Thomas Jeppesen on September 5, 2011 at 7:03pm

Excuse me? What did I say about Pauls pictures? I didn't talk about his pictures at all. Except the huge yellow misplaced logo he has on them. No one ever said the client shouldn't have a choice ... he just shouldn't be presented with the whole bunch of pictures. I merely said the photographer should choose the selection, if there is one.

I also clearly state that it's my personal opinion, based on MY experience as a non professional photographer.

Aha! Did you ever stop and ask yourself WHY the stock agencies ask for this? Because no one want to pay for an image that has a logo in it!

You're totally naive if you think a (non-disruptive) logo can keep people from reproducing the image. So therefore it may as well be on the back, as previously stated.

But now I'm curious as to how this is done 'tastefully' as you say. How about uploading a few pictures, so we can see the logo in action?

Let's see some good old american marketing in action! :-)

/Thomas
http://www.subsignal.com

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Permalink Reply by Thomas Jeppesen on September 6, 2011 at 1:25am

Ok, settle down, lads! No need to get all worked up here :-)

Maybe my understanding of common practice is not that common after all, in the US at least, but you have to accept my personal point of view, which is that it's a bad move for both you and the client to stick a logo on the image itself. If the logo is placed on the back or on a white frame, that's another thing, and probably a very good idea.

Let me repeat again, so there's no confusion: These are my personal views only ... You can place a big pink cross right over the entire image, if you think it's beneficial for your image, your client and your business.

I would still like to see some of the images you have put your logo on. Maybe I'm wrong, and it actually CAN be done tastefully without upseeting the image or indeed the client.

Put your money where your mouth is! (or Stash, as in SRW's case :-)

I really don't understand why you try to twist my words into including an opinion about your images. I've said nothing about them, but you keep insisting that I hinted something. If you really want to know, then I'll be happy to offer you my honest opinion, but lets not pretend that I said anything thus far in this conversation.

"Stock agencies do not want images with logos or signatures, because the people they sell them to, like yourself, could not easily use them or want them.  You being an owner of an ad agency certainly understands that, I would hope, as you have said."

EXACTLY! Why do you repeat what I say, and then pretend it's your argument? Try to focus a little, if you really want to continue this discussion. Which, by the way, you keep saying you don't?

SRW, do you even read what's been written or do you just see Paul's confusing comments, and take it from there? I never opposed to having a logo on a print. I opposed having a logo on THE IMAGE ITSELF. Remember, the discussion is about wedding pictures and portraits that people hire you to do.

A nice evening to all!

/Thomas
http://www.subsignal.com

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Permalink Reply by AMW Photography on September 6, 2011 at 7:46am

Wow! This thread has turned out to be full of information in more ways than one! I think the 'logo' thing may be a bit overblown. If you have a contract or the client signs a waiver, wouldn't that make things a bit easier? I am by no means a 'professional' photographer! I am however interested in possibly selling my photos someday and for MY creations (photos, designs, finished products) I have been putting my name on them. I think if its done tastefully, it shouldn't take away from what the client wants and might add a little something to the overall outcome. Or like someone else suggested, the client can always put a mat or frame over the spot where the 'logo' or signature is. I feel like communication with the client should be key BEFORE you ever start taking photos?  Wouldn't it make it easier if the client knew about this before you began? Or is it something you talk about AFTER you have done their shots? Like I said, I am no pro but these are just some ideas I am knocking around. I also wouldn't mind if you checked out my photos, I welcome constructive critisism!.

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Permalink Reply by AMW Photography on September 6, 2011 at 8:04am

" target="_blank">Finished Product-Speaking of logos, here's my stuff with my 'signature' on it. You seasoned vets of the trade, what do you think about these in light of the discussion?
Find more photos like this on The Photography Network - PictureSocial

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Permalink Reply by CameraClicker on September 6, 2011 at 10:20am

Kitiara, I don't think your link went in as you expected.  It fails when I click on it and it looks like only the last part of the link was pasted.  The URL is the part before target=, that is the part that takes you to the page, and it is missing.

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Permalink Reply by CameraClicker on September 6, 2011 at 10:59am

Well, this discussion has become pretty acrimonious.

 

I'm not much of a fan of water marks and don't use them because they are so easy to remove, and they draw attention from the photo.  If you use Nathan's method of keeping control of the images, then water marks are unnecessary.

 

I have heard the suggestion, several times, of having a large portrait prepared to show a client and I think that makes sense since most people seem not to be able to visualize a large image when presented with a small image.  Prints I have made from my own photos usually are much more impressive when displayed at a large size.

 

Speaking as a customer, if there was a logo that obviously detracted from the appearance or was blatant, it would upset me and I would cover it or not display it.  Definitely the supplier would not receive a recommendation, or more business from me.  Having the supplier information on a border that fits behind the frame or in a card holder in an album would be useful though as it would keep the information available if it was ever required.

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Permalink Reply by Studio Laurent on September 14, 2011 at 11:30pm

This is an interesting thread and I bet Joy got more than she expected out of it!!! LOL

I'll just add my two cents about the logo/watermark question and make it quick. When I deliver the final images to my clients, I always include two sets of fully edited digital images, usually on DVD, along with the prints that may have been ordered:

1. High resolution digital files for them to print anywhere they choose, even at SEARS!!! (although I strongly suggest that I work with the best lab and they should print with me of course as I can guarantee the outcome and their satisfaction).
   I NEVER include my logo or a watermark on the front of the pictures... But each file includes my metadata and that's it.
2. Low resolution files to share via email or on social networks.
   These files ALWAYS include my logo on the front of the pictures in one of the lower corners usually... The list of pros far outweigh the cons!!!
3. Prints NEVER include my logo on the front (...I agree that would be SUPER tacky!) but I do stamp them on the back or have my studio details printed on the back by the lab.

I also ALWAYS have each of my customer sign a contract with me. It goes into details about how I work, their rights and all that other boring stuff... and upon delivery of the digital images, I also include a print release form so that they can print the high-resolution images at any lab without problem. It also includes copyright and licensing details.

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Permalink Reply by Thomas Jeppesen on September 15, 2011 at 3:54am

@Studio Laurent: BINGO! That would be the way to do it!

@Leekin: I totally agree, if it's in the contract, there's nothing to discuss.

/Thomas
http://www.subsignal.com

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Permalink Reply by John Leekin on September 15, 2011 at 2:33am

I only show my clients edited photos, period.

I put my logo on the back of my pictures with a copyright note and my name, period.

I mention all this in the written agreement, which they sign, period.

Is my work, not theirs..if they disagree after they sign, I sue, period.

Enough of this BS with spoiled customers wanting to change every market for their convenience, that's why there are pre- agreements, agreements and lawyers.

So far, I have never had a problem, provided I inform them in advance, and they agree in advance. If they still have a problem with the policies and procedures of your bussiness, politely send them to SEARS or WALMART, or just have them take a hike. You will be doing yourself, your fellow photographers and the industry, a huge favor.

 

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